The Road to UFC season one winner, Rinya Nakamura of Japan, returns to the octagon against Tajik Muin Gafurov in the early prelims of UFC 311. The Bantamweights each entered the octagon once last year and won victories, with Muin Gafurov finally getting into the win column on his third attempt. The undefeated Japanese prospect is a huge favorite to win this bout.
Bet on Rinya Nakamura vs. Muin Gafurov with 1xBet
MMA: UFC Bantamweight
Where to Watch: ESPN/FX/UFC Fight Pass
Venue: Intuit Dome, Inglewood, California
Date: 19.01.2025 02:00
Rinya Nakamura
The freestyle wrestling sensation is unbeaten since transitioning to MMA after winning the 2017 U23 world championship. Rinya Nakamura won the first season of the Road to UFC, a tournament designed to bring talented Asians into the UFC. “Hybrid” is now 3-0 since debuting in the UFC. Last year at UFC 298, the 29-year-old dominated Carlos Vera on the ground and won by unanimous decision. Unfortunately, he could not make further appearances due to injury.
Tale of the Tape
- Age: 29
- Height: 5’.7”
- Reach: 68”
- Weight: 135lbs (61.2kg)
- Record: 9-0
Muin Gafurov
Former LFA bantamweight champion Muin Gafurov finally secured a maiden UFC victory at the third time of asking with a decision over Kyung Ho Kang last June. The Tajik fighter made his UFC debut in June 2023, losing to John Castaneda. In October 2023, he was choked out in the first round of his fight against Said Nurmagomedov to close out his first year 0-2. “Tajik” competed in several promotions, including ONE Championship, ACB, UAE Warriors, and LFA, before joining the UFC.
Tale of the Tape
- Age: 29
- Height: 5’7”
- Reach: 68”
- Weight: 135lbs (61.2kg)
- Record: 19-6
Betting Odds
Muin Gafurov is a 4.50 underdog on Betway. Rinya Nakamura to win the fight by decision is 1.80 odds on Bet365 and by submission 5.50. Under 1.5 is available at 3.6 odds on 1xbet, with under 2.5 available at 2.43 odds. Read more here.
Bet on Rinya Nakamura vs. Muin Gafurov with 1xBet

